The Law on Stables and Pastures: an Annotated Translation of the Kyūmokuryō (Sect. 23 of Yōrōryō)

Abstract

Abstract This article proposes a translation of the Kyūmokuryō, or Law on Stables and Pastures, which is included in the Yōrō Era Code (718). It is the oldest extant text to systematically address only bovine and equine species, illustrating how the state protected, promoted, and enhanced their well-being. The Law provides the knowledge required to manage stables and pastures, from the allocation of tasks and duties of staff to feeding modalities (quantity, quality, and times of foraging, consumption of grass, salt, etc.), from annual animal marking and recording procedures to the treatment of illness, loss (and finding), death, mating, and calving/foaling, as well as how private animals may be exploited and the use of animals for military purposes. Historical commentaries and dictionaries have been a valuable resource in preparing the translation, and elements of animal welfare that are regarded as good practice even today are highlighted.